Suzuki patents hybrid superbike with semi auto transmission

Suzuki has filed a patent which reveals a four-cylinder hybrid motorcycle with semi automatic transmission.

The patent images reveal that Suzuki’s new model will sport an in-line four cylinder engine layout coupled with an electric motor, fitted above the crank case and behind the cylinder heads. The electric motor can be used to supply full-electric drive or electric assistance to the petrol-powered engine.

When operating on the internal combustion engine, the transmission continues to spin the electric motor, turning it into a generator, and to maintain a healthy charge level on hybrid mode. The battery is mounted under the seat and looks small, so actual range of the bike on pure electric bike will be limited.

Gear shifting will be clutchless, thanks to the semi automatic transmission, and gear changes are electronic rather than mechanical. Shifting is traditional though, using a left-foot shifter. Considering it’s a hybrid, it will also get different modes like pure electric, electric assist and power generation.

The patent illustrations suggest Suzuki may be planning to use the technology on a sportbike. However, there’s no information yet on actual production timelines or if and when it will appear on an actual production model.